The tupelo occurs in the southeastern U.S., from Virginia south to north Florida, west to southeastern Texas, and following the Mississippi River valley to southern Illinois. The botanical family of the tupelo is Nyssaceae, with its species name being Nyssa aquatica. The Greek word Nyssa means "Water nymph" or "goddess of Lakes and rivers." The Creek Indians called it tupelo or, simply, "swamp tree."
Tupelo Gum Butt
By Steve Nix, About.com Guide
Tupelo gum of the southern river swamp forest is recognized by its buttressed base and long, clear trunk which opens into a narrow crown.
Tupelo Gum Butt
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